Sean, I'm aware of how the rabbit hide can make the gap appear smaller than it is. I've tied many of these myself. But I'm still wondering about how small that gap is in relation to the overall size and bulk of the fly. And since you didn't answer my question about compromized hooking ability, I'll assume that you haven't fished this pattern for pike before.

this was the first time i have even tied it
seen the pattern on TV acouple of times and that it has won the One fish tourny in wyoming twice so i figured it would work well in larger sizes for pike
this spring i'll give it a go for some smallies and if i am lucky maybe i'll be able to get some of the pike and the musky that are in the river